Enigma-based quest for France’s hidden Golden Owl concludes, marking the end of one of the world’s longest-running treasure hunts

After more than three decades, the famous French treasure hunt for the “Golden Owl” has finally ended. Launched in 1993 by game creator Régis Hauser, aka Max Valentin, and artist Michel Becker, the treasure hunt involved solving a series of 11 riddles that led to the 10 kg owl statue, worth approximately €150,000. The mysterious owl, studded with diamonds, has baffled thousands of treasure hunters across the country.

The hunt started with the publication of the book Sur la trace de la chouette d’or, which contained the clues necessary to find the hidden statue. The book was released in three editions, but each one held the key to solving the same puzzle. Hauser had buried the treasure somewhere in France, and it remained undiscovered for over three decades, despite the best efforts of numerous hunters. The complexity of the riddles, combined with Hauser’s passing in 2009, added layers of intrigue and controversy to the search.

At 8:26 a.m. this morning, co-creator Becker made an announcement on the treasure hunt’s forum, confirming that the treasure had been unearthed the previous night. Along with this, a solution upload was sent to the game’s online verification system, officially ending the hunt. Becker’s statement also advised participants that there was no longer any need to dig at their suspected locations. The identity of the individual who discovered the owl has yet to be revealed, as has the exact location where the treasure was buried.

Throughout the treasure hunt’s long history, the Golden Owl captivated enthusiasts, sparking legal battles and fan theories. After Hauser’s death, various disputes arose between his heirs and Becker over the rights to the solution. Becker eventually obtained the answers to the riddles and reignited the quest in the early 2020s, creating an online community through Discord to keep interest alive.

While the discovery of the treasure brings closure to the decades-long hunt, many treasure hunters remain eager to learn the full solutions to the riddles that kept them guessing for 31 years. For some, solving the enigma became a cultural legacy and symbol of endurance, even more so than finding the hidden statue.

The final chapter of the Golden Owl’s story may not only bring an end to one of the world’s longest-running treasure hunts but also provide insights into the puzzle that stumped a generation of treasure seekers.